An application has been submitted for the construction of one six-bedroom house to be built on a "derelict walled garden" near the grounds of the former Princess Helena College in Preston.

The plans have been submitted by Bedford-based Modern Architecture Workshop Ltd for the site in Hitchin Road. 

The walled garden is close to The Dower House, a Grade-II listed building on the grounds of the former Princess Helena College. 

Proposals include an arrival court with space for 12 vehicles, garage, five bedrooms with en suites and a master bedroom with en suite and dressing room.

A report by Priory Heritage, Architectural Surveyors and Historic Building Consultants, states: "The walled garden is currently disused and has not been actively managed for its intended purpose for many years."

While Historic England acknowledges in a pre-application advice letter that "demolition of the existing walls would result in loss of historic fabric", it goes on to say that it would "not expect to raise any objection on heritage grounds"

"However, we recommend that you provide comprehensive supporting information before any statutory approval is sought – particularly regarding the approach to and any impacts arising from the required earthmoving", it added.

Princess Helena College closed in 2021. It has since been used for filming the new 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice' movie starring Winona Ryder, Jenna Ortega and Michael Keaton. 

To view or comment on the plans, go to the North Herts Council's planning portal and search 24/01691/FP.